EXPERIENCE AND EXPLORE
Parksville Activities and Area Attractions
The Parksville-Qualicum Beach area enjoys the mildest year-round climate in Canada. Guests of Tigh-Na-Mara enjoy golfing nearly every day of the year as well as hiking, wildlife viewing, beachcombing, relaxing and taking in the beautiful view of the Strait of Georgia and Coast Mountains.
ocean ecoventures
Ocean EcoVentures is a marine eco tourism company that has focused on marine conservation, public outreach and education since 2003. Encounter Orcas, Biggs Killer Whales, Humpback Whales, Pacific White Sided Dolphins, Black Bears, Grizzly Bears, Steller & California Sea Lions, Pacific Harbour Seals, Bald Eagles, Stunning Scenery and Seascapes.
The northern reaches of the Salish Sea that surround the Parksville and Qualicum Beach area are teeming with whales and wildlife. This prolific marine ecosystem supports one of the largest Pacific herring spawning grounds on the British Columbia coast. The Pacific herring is one of the keystone species of the Salish Sea that provides essential nutrients to whales, seals, sea lions, wolves, bears, and sea birds, to name a few.
Our experienced team is excited to share their passion and intimate knowledge of the whales and wildlife of the Salish Sea. Whales are our passion! We feel fortunate and grateful to be able to share Vancouver Island’s marine ecosystem and all that inhabits it. We are dedicated to responsible and ethical wildlife viewing.
Sea Kayaking
Sweeping mountain vistas across the Strait of Georgia, islands to explore, curious harbour seals, colourful seastars and boisterous sea lions are all here waiting for you. Experience the grandeur of kayaking right off our own Vancouver Island shores!
Sea Adventuress Rentals and Tours 1-866-955-6702
Horne Lake Caves
Located 45 minutes from Tigh-Na-Mara, Horne Lake features crystal-clear water and two spectacular parks. Outdoor lovers can experience Vancouver Island’s coolest adventures like exploring caves, kayaking, canoeing, rock-climbing or the Challenge Obstacle Course. Choose from easy family cavern tours to a three hour Spelunking Adventure or, the more challenging four and five hour tours featuring a rappel down a seven storey underground waterfall!
Milner Gardens & Woodlands
Stroll the winding pathways and magical surroundings of an ancient coastal Douglas Fir forest. Find peace and tranquility as you meander the woodland gardens lined with rhododendrons, cyclamen and trilliums. Enjoy a traditional English tea service while you contemplate the history of the house where the Queen once stayed. Milner Gardens & Woodlands are located in nearby Qualicum Beach.
Open April to mid October
https://www2.viu.ca/milnergardens/
Mount Washington
Home of the deepest snow pack in North America, Mount Washington is famous for it’s snow, receiving an average of more than 35ft annually! Combine that with amazing 360° degree Alpine to Ocean views and you have one of the best skiing or snowboarding experiences worldwide. Mount Washington is located less than a one hour drive from Tigh-Na-Mara Resort in Courtney-Comox. If visiting Parksville during the summer, try biking Mount Washington.
Deep Bay Marine Field Station
The Deep Bay Marine Field Station supports both pure and applied coastal and marine research activities related to: sustainable shellfish aquaculture development; preservation of coastal ecosystems; and inter-disciplinary projects involving local communities. We also open up the Field Station to the public so that we can educate about important issues related to sustainability of coastal communities.
https://www2.viu.ca/deepbay/ 250-740-6611
North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre
Nestled in the district of Errington on Vancouver Island, NIWRA is a park like setting with a peaceful rustic atmosphere. When visiting the centre you will be able to view eagles, several species of owls, falcons, hawks, ravens, and black bears.
During the summer months, live raptor presentations are available for you.
The centre is a world class wildlife rehabilitation facility specializing in raptors and black bear. Magnificent eagles can be viewed through one way glass in the largest flight cage if its kind in Canada.
Parksville Museum
The museum's primary mandate is to collect, preserve, and display artifacts and archival materials that pertain to the varied aspects of this area. The museum has an expansive collection of objects that help us illustrate the lives and activities of early settlers, organizations and businesses of the local communities.
BRANT WILDLIFE FESTIVAL
The annual Brant Wildlife Festival celebrates nature, particularly the arrival of Brant geese on the shores of Parksville and Qualicum Beach on Vancouver Island, and encourages people of all ages to get outside and enjoy their beautiful natural surroundings.
Events range from Spring Break Nature Camps for kids, to wildlife viewing opportunities and guest speakers across Parksville, Qualicum Beach, as well as surrounding areas.
This festival is coordinated by The Nature Trust of British Columbia in collaboration with many community groups and volunteers.
Photo credit: Angie Ooms
brantfestival.bc.ca 1-866-288-7878
Please note that Rathtrevor Beach and the Tigh-Na-Mara beach are closed to all dogs from February 15th - April 30th, 2024 while the brant geese rest during their migration from Mexico to Alaska. Rathtrevor's eastern sandy beach is closed to pets year-round.
Haida Gold Ocean Adventures
Do you want to reel in a Pacific salmon? Go beachcombing on a private white sand beach, explore the forested trails of a marine park, and visit a historical homestead? Or, perhaps you would prefer an onboard picnic, gourmet meal or relaxing sunset cruise? Whatever your lifestyle or pace, Haida Gold Ocean Adventures offers something unique for everyone.
The Old Country Market, Goats on the Roof
Coombs, British Columbia, is renowned for its iconic Old Country Market, famously known as "Goats on the Roof." This whimsical market features a sod roof where goats graze, creating a unique sight that draws more than a million visitors each year. The market's charm goes beyond its furry roof-dwellers.
Visitors can explore a variety of unique galleries, studios, and shops. From artisanal crafts and local artwork to specialty foods and souvenirs, the market is a vibrant hub of creativity and culture. Its eclectic offerings ensure that there's something for everyone, whether you're a curious traveler or a local resident.
In addition to its shops, the market boasts an array of culinary delights. With an in-house bakery tempts visitors with freshly baked goods, while the deli offers a selection of gourmet treats. For those seeking a full meal, the market's restaurant serves a variety of dishes, emphasizing local and fresh ingredients. Also on property is the outdoor Taqueria Cantina open air Mexican Restaurant and Cuckoo Trattoria and Pizzeria, a beautiful Italian Restaurant.
The Old Country Market is more than just a shopping destination; it's a cultural landmark that encapsulates the quirky and charming spirit of Coombs, making it a must-visit for anyone traveling through Vancouver Island.
The Old Country Market is open seasonally and usually closes for a month or more during the winter, please check their website for hours.
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We acknowledge and give thanks to the Qualicum and Snaw-Naw-As First Nations on whose ancestral lands we operate.